GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Today, The Committee to Honor Cesar E. Chavez along with families, students and leaders came together for its annual ‘5 de Mayo’ event.
Guests were treated to live dancing, singing and a painting for auction.
The lively celebration was an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come together under one roof, honoring Mexico’s history and the life and legacy of Cesar E. Chavez while uniting the community.
Through tasty authentic Mexican cuisine, singing from University of Michigan student Abel Munoz and other entertainment, like dancing, hundreds of people celebrated Cinco de Mayo – or as some call it – ‘5 de Mayo.'
“We have the media, elected officials with the community and students together,” Honorable Lupe Ramos-Montigny said. "Together, we move this mission forward and that mission is the determination, freedom and all those things that come when you conquer the mighty army of the world.”
Organizers of the event said ‘5 de Mayo’ is a time to celebrate the history of the indigenous people of Mexico and their victory in the battle of Puebla, Mexico over the French.
“We have a lot of very diverse communities here today, and it's very lovely to see that because it's not just all about the Hispanic community, it's a culture that's celebrated and we want it to be celebrated by all,” University of Michigan student Abel Munoz said.
Munoz has performed since he was a kid, and singing in front of a large crowd is something he said he’s not afraid to do, as he showcases his talent front and center.
“I’ve been performing since I was a kid, so to be able to show and kind of entertain the people and keep them engaged with what's happening today, that's an honor for me,” Munoz said.
Every year similar events are held across the Grand Rapids area and the world, commemorating the cause of freedom and democracy which has been celebrated since the 1800s.
“I am elated because it was a complete success,” Ramos-Montigny said. "When you get people together that believe in one reason, one, solution, one mission, things happen.”
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